The 1966 Mercury Comet was bigger than the previous year having ‘upgraded’ from a compact to an intermediate car. Previously based on the Ford Falcon it now shared its body with the Ford Fairlane.
The Caliente Convertible you see here is part of a sub-series within the comet family consisting of 3 models: a 4 door sedan, a hardtop coupe and the convertible.
It enjoys chrome trim around the wheel well openings and above the rocker panels – a feature not on the base Comets.
The convertible came with a power top as standard.
The interior is a bit plusher than in other Comets and includes a deluxe steering wheel and walnut trim on the door panels and dash adding a nice, decorative touch.
As standard the Comet came with a 200 cubic inch, 6-cylinder engine. However, this Caliente was ordered with the Z-code 390 cubic inch Cyclone V8 outputting 275 horsepower, which was the biggest engine available for the Comet (they are more commonly seen fitted with a 289). This is paired with a 4-speed manual transmission – a higher cost option than the standard 3-speed.
Mercury sold 3,922 Comet Caliente Convertibles in the 1966 model year at a base price of $2,475. This particular car was also ordered with power steering and powering windows costing $66.30 and $106 respectively. It was built in the Lorain, OH assembly plant.
This 1966 Comet is currently for sale on eBay. (follow the link for more photos)
The GT/A was available with the 330 HP with C-6 only. Had a fiberglass hood and deck lid.